Ferris State University alumnus T.J. Klein earned an Excellence in Education Award from the Michigan Lottery for his work supporting students as a Big Rapids High School teacher and coach. 

“I had to keep the word of my selection a secret for about a month,” Klein said. “The Michigan Lottery brought in a crew for a promotional piece first. I am honored, as there are around 1,000 nominees each year and just 34 teachers are selected for this award.” 

Klein received a $2,000 prize and could be chosen as 2023-24 Educator of the Year and receive another $10,000 as the academic year ends. 

“I was nominated by Isaac Zocco, part of a great family,” Klein said. “Isaac and I are around each other a great deal as he plays varsity hockey and tennis and through his math studies. It was an honor to be recognized for doing what I love to do and to receive that nomination from a student-athlete is even better. It affirms that I am in the right place, doing the right things.” 

Klein grew up in Sparta and was a 2010 Kenowa Hills graduate, beginning his college education at Grand Rapids Community College before earning his Bachelor of Science in Math Education from Ferris State in 2015. 

“Job openings were tough to find when I earned my degree. I had considered a position in Coopersville, then learned Big Rapids had an opening in Chemistry,” Klein said. “I applied and got an interview for that position, but the district came back to say I had my choice between science and math, and I made a very satisfying decision.” 

Klein is busy with the Cardinal hockey team and the tennis program, assisting Tim Blashill and Jon Coles by accepting the junior varsity tennis role in 2022. The Klein family has strong Ferris ties, as his wife, Kendra, was part of the women’s basketball program after earning All-State honors at Big Rapids High School. 

“Everything is so great right now,” Klein said. “Teaching is very rewarding, because you have the opportunity to make an impact on students that can last for a lifetime.” 

The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence in Education awards in 2014 to recognize outstanding public-school educators statewide during the school year. One winner is selected each week.